Honda GoldWing
King of the Touring Class

Considered the first production touring bike, the Honda GoldWing appeared in 1975 and took the public by surprise as touring bikes, as we know them today, didn’t exist by that time.

People were expecting a new big model from Honda to compete with the new Kawasaki Z1 sport bike that had outshined the CB750. But even though the GoldWing was big (thick styling, busy looking, 999 cc and 584 pounds dry weight) and fast (the bike could top 120 mph), it hadn’t a sporty look nor ride, due to its heavy curb weight, low ground clearance, and high bars.

Technologically speaking, the 1975 Honda GoldWing was revolutionary and exceptionally advanced for its time.

The bike was equipped with:

• An opposed four cylinder engine
• A sophisticated liquid-cooling system
• An extremely reliable shaft drive
• A fuel tank under the seat (a configuration that was new for that time)

The Honda GoldWing was not a fast seller at the beginning but as people embraced the concept of the bike and the idea of long-distance motorcycle touring, it became a real success.

Besides, a whole new industry of aftermarket motorcycle accessories appeared soon after the Honda GoldWing was launched to supply: fairings, luggage, saddles and other parts and equipment for the bike.

It didn’t take long for this bike to become an icon.

Since 1975, the Honda GoldWing has kept evolving. Here are a few of the major leaps:

• In 1980, the engine went from 999 cc to 1,100 cc and the motorcycle was equipped with a factory touring kit.
• In 1984, the GoldWing was equipped with a bigger engine and the GL1200 was born. Improvements on the chassis were also made to improve handling.
• In 1985, Honda GoldWing’s were fitted with the Limited Edition package (four-speaker stereo, cruise control, auto-leveling suspension, and a digital dash with a travel computer).
• In 1988, the engine grew again and the new GL1500 was fitted with a six cylinder engine.
• In 2006, Honda equipped the GoldWing with the world’s first production motorcycle airbag system.

If you are looking for the detailed history of the Honda GoldWing, check this page.

Along the years Honda has kept adding improvements to the Gold Wing and it’s today: the King of the Touring Class and a point of reference for all motorcycle enthusiasts interested in the luxury-touring bike category.

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